- Executive function refers to a set of abilities or talents. These include planning and meeting goals, self-control, following multiple step instructions/orders even while disrupted or distracted.
- Executive function skills help our brains to set priorities, ignore distractions and control impulses
Everyone can learn them
- These abilities are developed through experiences and repeated practice. Infants learn to pay attention. Close relationships with parents, caregivers, teachers and other adults are the foundation of executive function; this is especially true during infancy.
- Adults establish the framework or scaffolding so young children may acquire the skills by setting routines and breaking down large tasks into smaller ones. These abilities develop most quickly between the ages of 3-5. It takes years of practice to foment these abilities, however, caregivers can allow children to self-regulate and manage their environment. These skills spike again in the teenage years as well as young adulthood.
Everyone benefits
- Over time the mastering of these skills enables children and adolescents to become good students, friends and citizens.
- With time and never-ending practice the young adults are able to handle many different commitments, employment, parenting and being a good participative citizen. One’s health is impacted too as the function keeps you on a healthy diet and exercise regime throughout life. Reduced stress levels benefits us all.
